Explainer
Some Things Became More Affordable Since 2000
Affordability has not moved in the same direction for every household category since 2000.
![[ALT TEXT]](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6a4ce2573c5e347b9450aeb1/6ab27b3c67fdba1a1e9aef22_6ab1547b3b862487950b9d36_07_Some_Things_More_Affordable.png)
What This Graphic Shows
The graphic contrasts categories that became cheaper relative to wages with household-maintenance categories whose prices rose faster than wages.
Key Takeaway
An overall inflation rate can hide large differences in category-level affordability.
Verification Status:
Verified — Current
Last Verified:
September 21, 2026
Sources
Review the sources used to support this visual.
Ohio Common Ground Research Center
What Became More — and Less — Affordable Since 2000
September 10, 2026
View Source →Explore More
Continue exploring the issue or return to the complete OCG Visual Library.